In Thought
Sep, 2014Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
I captured this image in the Santa Fe Zoo. Zoo Photography is a solid outlet for photographers who do not have the means to travel to remote places to get shots of wildlife like this gorilla.Time
This has to be one of my favorite animal shots - I took it a little after midday and it was a largely overcast day.Lighting
I prefer to only shoot wildlife and zoo-life on overcast days since no harsh shadows are cast over my subject's face or body. I strongly encourage photographers to try to shoot in these conditions so that the subject is well lit and so an off camera flash is not required. Especially with nature photography, off camera flash can be extremely unhelpful since it can frighten the animal or blind them. Natural light is always my preferred style of shooting and I avoid artificial light at all costs.Equipment
I used a Canon 60D with a 70-200mm lens. It was a handheld shot.Inspiration
The emotion. I love to find features in animals that are unique or thought provoking. This gorilla was stroking its chin and throat ever so slightly as if in great thought. When I saw these movements, I was very excited and set up for the shot - and was pleased with the results.Editing
I converted the image to black and white, and did some spot removal. Slight vignette and contrast was added.In my camera bag
I usually carry a Canon 5D Mark iii, 70-200mm telephoto, 50mm prime, and a 20-35mm wide angle. Additionally, I carry a mid to heavy weight tripod, several filters (ND, Polarizers, etc.), and a remote cable release. I make sure to carry a few emergency items as well such as mesh bags that can hold rocks and be attached to my tripod, bungee cords, rubber bands, a few SD cards, and a microfiber cloth.Feedback
Be aware of what is happening around you at all angles. I am constantly looking all directions and observing the landscape: where the sun is, which way the wind is blowing and how strong it is, how my subject is moving, what the energy of the scene is, and what I am feeling. To get a shot like this, I watched this one gorilla for about 20-30 minutes before it moved and I shot each of its slow and deliberate movements to capture the emotion it was giving out. It is crucial as a photographer to capture the emotion of the photograph - the composition and lighting can only get you so far. A great image has character. It makes a person feel a certain way and think certain thoughts - that is the power we hold as photographers.
